AP English Language and Composition — Essay Writing Tips From Examiners

This guide on AP English Language and Composition essay writing tips explains how examiners evaluate structure, reasoning, and evidence in high-scoring responses.

AP English Language and Composition (AP Lang) is one of the most popular AP courses, but also one of the most challenging. Success on this exam requires strong writing, critical analysis, and the ability to craft clear, persuasive essays under strict time limits.

This guide shares examiner-style strategies to help students improve their rhetorical analysis, argument essays, and synthesis essays — and ultimately score higher on the exam.

Understand the Three Essay Types

The AP Lang free-response section includes three essays:

1. Synthesis EssayCombines multiple sources to form a clear, evidence-based argument.

2. Rhetorical Analysis EssayAnalyzes how an author uses rhetorical strategies to persuade or inform.

3. Argument EssayPresents a well-supported argument on a given prompt using original reasoning.

Each requires a different approach, but strong writing fundamentals apply across all three formats.

1. Master the Rhetorical Analysis Essay

The rhetorical analysis essay is the most unique component of the AP Lang exam.

To excel, students should:

Identify the rhetorical situation:

• Purpose

• Audience

• Context

• Exigence

  
  

Focus on key rhetorical strategies:

• Diction

• Syntax

• Tone

• Imagery

• Appeals (ethos, pathos, logos)

  
  

Follow a structured paragraph approach:

• Identify the strategy

• Explain how it functions

• Connect it to the author’s message

• Demonstrate its effect on the audience

Examiners look for clarity, strong reasoning, and precise explanation — not listing devices.

2. Improve Your Argument Essay

The argument essay tests students’ ability to create a logical, persuasive argument.

Strengthen your thesis

Provide a direct, defensible claim.

Use evidence effectively

Include:

• Historical examples

• Current events

• Personal observations

• Literature or academic references

Evidence must be developed, not just mentioned.

Build logical flow

Each paragraph should:

• Begin with a clear claim

• Include evidence

• Explain the reasoning

• Connect back to the thesis

A well-structured argument essay shows clear thinking and confident writing.

3. Succeed in the Synthesis Essay

The synthesis essay requires combining multiple sources into one coherent argument.

Tips for higher scores:

• Annotate the sources quickly

• Identify contradictions or strong connections

• Use at least three sources

• Avoid relying solely on one or two texts

• Blend source material with your own analysis

Examiners reward students who integrate sources smoothly and maintain a consistent line of reasoning.

4. Develop Strong Timed Writing Skills

AP Lang essays must be completed very quickly:

• 15 minutes reading time

• 40 minutes writing time per essay

To improve speed:

• Practice timed writing weekly

• Use clear, concise language

• Avoid long introductions

• Focus on one clear argument per paragraph

• Leave 2–3 minutes to revise

Time management significantly impacts final scores.

5. Write With Precision and Control

High-scoring essays demonstrate:

• Academic tone

• Varied sentence structure

• Purposeful word choice

• Logical transitions

• Confident analysis

Avoid filler sentences, vague statements, or overly complex wording.

AP English Language and Composition rewards clear thinking, strong structure, and effective communication. Students who practice consistently with examiner-style strategies dramatically improve their essay quality and exam performance.

At RiformaEdu, our AP English specialists train students with detailed essay frameworks, personalized feedback, and skill-based improvement plans.